A sport with universal appeal

A SPORT FOR ALL AGES...The Shepparton Chess Club welcomes one and all for competition. First board from left, Chess Club president, David Wynne plays Tristan McGrath, second board, Joe Commesso and Jeff Gibbs. Photo: Natasha Fujimoto

AN ancient sport played and loved the world over, chess has never waned in popularity.

It is a game of study and ingenuity, drawing out participants’ personal qualities and foibles under the pressure of conquest and survival.

For the president of Shepparton Chess Club, David Wynne, chess has been a challenging and thrilling part of his life for over 60 years, keeping his mind nimble and astute while providing him with an enriching source of friendship and fellowship.

The Shepparton Chess club has had a diverse membership overtime, reflecting the universal nature of the game with talented players as young as seven entering tournaments against players far older.

A SPORT FOR ALL AGES…The Shepparton Chess Club welcomes one and all for competition. First board from left, Chess Club president, David Wynne plays Tristan McGrath, second board, Joe Commesso and Jeff Gibbs. Photo: Natasha Fujimoto

However, in recent years, the Shepparton Chess Club has declined in number and David would like players in the community to know that they are always welcome to come along and play, no matter what their level of experience.

“Chess is a game that gives you great satisfaction. It enhances your ability to concentrate and think laterally. It can be thrilling, and when you play a well-matched opponent, you can lose yourself in the game. While it is always gratifying to win, every game presents an opportunity to learn,” David says.

All are welcome to come along and join members of the Shepparton Chess Club at Shepparton Access, 227 Wyndham Street, on Saturday afternoons from 1.30pm -5.00pm. Chess instruction is available and there is an extensive chess library with books free to borrow.

For more information, please call the club’s president, David on 0478 799 029